The mountains have always attracted individuals who deeply love nature and are passionate about exploring its beauty. Their beautiful peaks, winding roads, and stunning views inspire us to explore their challenging landscapes. But when it comes to driving in the mountains, it’s important to choose the best cars for mountain driving. Because steep inclines, sharp turns, and unpredictable weather conditions often characterize mountain roads. These factors require a car with the power, traction, and flexibility to navigate these difficult roads.
Brand Name | Model (Year) | Base Level Space | Hight & Wieght | Trims | Price Range |
Outback(2023) | 2.5L engine with 182 horsepower | 191.1 Length 66.4 Height | 9 Trims | $28,395 To $42,295 | |
4Runner (2023) | 4.0L engine with 270 horsepower | 190.2 Length 71.5 Height | 8 Trims | $40,155 To $54,620 | |
CR-V(2023) | 1.5L engine with 190 horsepower | 184.8 Length 66.2 Height | 3 Trims | $28,410 To $33,710 | |
RAM 1500(2023) | 5.7L engine with 395 horsepower | 228.9 Length 77.6 Height | 9 Trims | $37,410 To $84,355 | |
Expedition(2023) | 3.5L engine with 380 horsepower | 210.0 Length 76.6 Height | 6 Trims | $54,755 To $82,815 | |
Land Cruiser(2021) | 5.7L engine with 381 horsepower | 194.9 Length 74.0 Height | 2 Trims | $85,665 To $87,995 | |
Grand Cherokee (2023) | 3.6L engine with 293 horsepower | 193.5 Length 70.8 Height | 8 Trims | $39,535 To $63,710 | |
RAV4(2023) | 2.5L engine with 203 horsepower | 180.9 Length 67.0 Height | 6 Trims | $28,275 To $37,895 | |
Tucson Hybrid(2023) | 1.6L engine with 226 horsepower | 182.3 Length 65.6 Height | 3 Trims | $31,350 To $39,110 | |
Telluride(2023) | 3.8L engine with 291 horsepower | 196.9 Length 68.9 Height | 10 Trims | $35,890 To $52,985 | |
F-150( 2023) | 3.3L engine with 290 horsepower | 209.1 Length 75.6 Height | 8 Trims | $34,585 To $84,910 | |
Wrangler(2023) | 3.6L engine with 285 horsepower | 166.8 Length 73.6 Height | 14 Trims | $31,195 To $82,495 | |
Colorado(2023) | 2.7L engine with 310 horsepower | 213.0 Length 78.8 Height | 5 Trims | $29,200 To $46,800 | |
Xterra(2015) | 4.0L engine with 261 horsepower | 178.7 Length 74.9 Height | 3 Trims | $23,660 To $30,590 | |
Sierra 1500(2023) | 2.7L engine with 310 horsepower | 210.9 Length 75.7 Height | 8 Trims | $37,100 To $82,100 | |
Tacoma(2023) | 2.7L engine with 159 horsepower | 212.3 Length 70.6 Height | 7 Trims | $28250 To $47,685 | |
Golf Alltrack(2019) | 1.8L engine with 168 horsepower | 180.2 Length 59.6 Height | 3 Trims | $26,895 To $34,995 |
Cars for mountain driving are designed to provide power, traction, and stability, ensuring a smooth and secure journey through the mountains. In this guide, we will discuss the 17 best cars for mountain driving that are perfect for tackling mountainous terrains. Each car on our list has been carefully selected based on its performance, handling, safety features, and suitability for mountain driving. Whether you prefer a sturdy SUV or a CAR, we have a variety of vehicles to meet your needs. Our goal is to provide you with valuable information and recommendations to help you choose the right car for your mountain adventures.
17 Best Cars For Mountain Driving
In this section, We will present a detailed analysis of the 17 best cars for mountain driving. We will provide comprehensive information on each car, including its pros and cons, to help you make an informed decision when choosing the perfect vehicle for navigating mountainous terrains.
Subaru Outback
Manufacturer: Subaru
Model(Years): Outback(2023)
Price Range: $28,395 To $42,295 (9 Trims)
Specs: 4.0L engine with 270 horsepower, 190.2 Length 71.5 Height, 28 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded H-4
Advantages: The 2023 Subaru Outback offers a spacious interior and ample cargo space, making it ideal for mountain driving. It also has impressive off-road capability and solid fuel economy. Additionally, the car comes with many standard active-safety features, ensuring a safe and enjoyable driving experience.
Disadvantages: The standard four-cylinder engine provides modest acceleration, and some users find the infotainment commands and menus a bit quirky. The lane departure warning system can be inconsistent, and the X-Mode acceleration off-road can feel jumpy at times.
Overall, the 2023 Subaru Outback is a reliable choice for mountain driving, offering spaciousness, off-road capability, fuel efficiency, and safety features. However, it may have some limitations in terms of acceleration, infotainment, lane departure warnings, and off-road acceleration smoothness.
Toyota 4Runner
Manufacturer: Toyota
Model(Years): 4Runner (2023)
Price Range: $40,155 To $54,620 (8 Trims)
Specs: 4.0L engine with 270 horsepower, 190.2 Length 71.5 Height, 17 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Toyota 4Runner excels in off-road capability and has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It offers a sliding rear cargo floor and comes standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The 4Runner also includes many standard safety features, ensuring a safe and connected mountain driving experience.
Disadvantages: The 4Runner has a firm ride and can feel clumsy in on-road driving situations. Its tall step-in height may pose a challenge for some, and it has poor fuel mileage compared to other vehicles.
Overall, the Toyota 4Runner is a capable choice for mountain driving, with its strong off-road performance, towing capacity, cargo features, and standard smartphone integration. However, it should be noted that it may have a firm ride, less refined on-road handling, a tall step-in height, and lower fuel efficiency.
Honda CR-V
Manufacturer: Honda
Model(Years): CR-V(2023)
Price Range: $28,410 To $33,710 (3 Trims)
Specs: 1.5L engine with 190 horsepower, 184.8 Length 66.2 Height, Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
Engine type: Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
Advantages: The Honda CR-V comes with a massively improved interior controls layout, offering intuitive and user-friendly features that make it the best car for mountain driving. It provides even more spaciousness in the backseat and improved forward visibility. The hybrid performance has also been enhanced, delivering better efficiency and power. The interior quality is noteworthy, showcasing high-quality materials and a refined cabin.
Disadvantages: The CR-V’s gas engine may feel sluggish, especially in certain driving situations. Under hard acceleration, the engine can generate noticeable noise. The hybrid variant may have mushy brakes, and the rear visibility may pose challenges. The gas-only model of the CR-V may experience wind noise at higher speeds.
Overall, the Honda CR-V offers improved interior controls, spaciousness, visibility, hybrid performance, and interior quality. However, it’s important to consider potential drawbacks such as the pokey gas engine, noise under hard acceleration, mushy brakes (hybrid), rear visibility challenges, and wind noise (gas-only model) when considering it for mountain driving.
Ram 1500
Manufacturer: RAM
Model(Years): Ram 1500(2023)
Price Range: $37,410 To $84,355 (Trims 9)
Specs: 5.7L engine with 395 horsepower, 228.9 Length 77.6 Height, 22 combined MPG
Engine type: Gas/Electric V-6
Advantages: The Ram 1500 offers a quiet and smooth ride, providing a comfortable driving experience even on rough mountain roads. Its spacious crew-cab model ensures ample room for passengers, making it suitable for long drives with a group. The multimedia system is user-friendly, allowing for easy navigation and entertainment control.
Additionally, the Ram 1500 provides plenty of storage options, both inside and out, catering to the needs of adventurous mountain drivers. The Limited trim level stands out with its luxurious interior, offering premium materials and a refined atmosphere. For those seeking powerful performance, the TRX variant delivers potent acceleration, perfect for conquering steep mountain inclines.
Disadvantages: While the Ram 1500 has numerous advantages, there are some disadvantages to consider. Luxury versions of the truck have a lower payload capacity compared to non-luxury models, limiting the amount of cargo that can be transported. Higher trim levels can also become expensive, potentially exceeding the budget of some buyers. The brake-pedal feel may not be as responsive or precise as desired, affecting braking performance in certain situations.
Overall, the Ram 1500 offers a quiet and smooth ride, spaciousness, a user-friendly multimedia system, ample storage options, a luxurious interior in the Limited trim, and potent acceleration in the TRX variant. However, it’s important to consider the lower payload of luxury versions, higher cost of higher trim levels, brake-pedal feel, chassis shudder on rough pavement (TRX), and the TRX’s poor gas mileage when evaluating it for mountain driving purposes.
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Ford Expedition
Manufacturer: Ford
Model(Years): Expedition(2023)
Price Range: $54,755 To $82,815 (6 Trims)
Specs: 3.5L engine with 380 horsepower, 210.0 Length 76.6 Height, 0 combined MPG
Engine type: Twin Turbo Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Ford Expedition offers real room in all rows of seats, providing ample space for passengers during mountain drives. Its powerful V-6 engine delivers impressive performance, ensuring smooth acceleration and the capability to tackle steep inclines. The Expedition also excels in terms of ride and handling, providing a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience on various road surfaces. Additionally, it boasts excellent towing capabilities, allowing drivers to confidently haul trailers or equipment during mountain adventures.
Disadvantages: The Expedition can be expensive, especially when considering higher trim levels and optional features. Towing with the Expedition can disproportionately decrease fuel economy, impacting the overall efficiency of the vehicle. Some interior materials may feel cheap or less premium compared to competitors in their class.
Overall, the Ford Expedition offers ample room, a powerful engine, excellent ride and handling, and impressive towing capabilities. However, potential buyers should be aware of its higher price point, decreased fuel economy during towing, interior material quality, and ease of use of the rotary shifter when considering it for mountain driving.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Manufacturer: Toyota
Model(Years): Land Cruiser(2021)
Price Range: $85,665 To $87,995 (2 Trims)
Specs: 5.7L engine with 381 horsepower, 194.9 Length 74.0 Height, 14 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-8
Advantages: The Toyota Land Cruiser offers very comfortable front seats, ensuring a pleasant driving experience during mountain trips. It boasts plenty of power, allowing for confident acceleration and the ability to navigate challenging terrains.
The Land Cruiser also features a responsive transmission, providing smooth gear shifts and enhancing overall performance. Furthermore, its high-tech 4×4 system contributes to exceptional off-road capabilities, making it a reliable choice for mountain driving adventures.
Disadvantages: One notable disadvantage of the Toyota Land Cruiser is its mind-bending price tag, which can be a significant barrier for many potential buyers. Additionally, the lack of second-row foot room may limit the comfort of rear passengers, particularly on longer journeys. It is worth noting that the Land Cruiser does not offer an air suspension option, which may affect ride quality on uneven mountain roads.
Overall, the Toyota Land Cruiser provides comfortable front seats, powerful performance, a responsive transmission, and a high-tech 4×4 system for mountain driving. However, it should be considered that the Land Cruiser comes with a high price tag, has limited second-row foot room, lacks air suspension, and features a somewhat challenging seat-folding process.
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Manufacturer: Jeep
Model(Years): Grand Cherokee (2023)
Price Range: $39,535 To $63,710 (8 Trims)
Specs: 3.6L engine with 293 horsepower, 193.5 Length 70.8 Height, 22 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Jeep Grand Cherokee offers impressive off-road capability, making it a suitable choice for mountain driving adventures. The higher trims of the Grand Cherokee provide a luxurious experience with premium features and materials, elevating the driving experience to a new level of comfort and refinement. The V-8 engine option delivers excellent acceleration and towing capacity, ideal for those who require robust performance. Additionally, the Grand Cherokee offers high-end tech features, enhancing convenience, connectivity, and safety during mountain drives.
Disadvantages:
One disadvantage of the Jeep Grand Cherokee is that the upper trims can be pricey, potentially exceeding the budget of some buyers. The standard engine may provide tepid performance compared to competitors in its class, which could affect acceleration and overall driving dynamics.
Overall, the Jeep Grand Cherokee excels in off-road capability, luxurious higher trims, V-8 performance and towing capacity, and high-end tech features. However, potential buyers should consider the higher price of upper trims, the performance of the standard engine, fuel efficiency of the V-8 option, and forward visibility when evaluating the Grand Cherokee for mountain driving.
Toyota RAV4
Manufacturer: Toyota
Model(Years): RAV4(2023)
Price Range: $28,275 To $37,895 (6 Trims)
Specs: 2.5L engine with 203 horsepower, 180.9 Length 67.0 Height, 30 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded I-4
Advantages: The reason why we add the Toyota RAV4 to the list of best cars for mountain driving is that it excels in fuel economy, especially with its Hybrid and Prime variants, making it efficient for mountain driving. It offers agile handling, a user-friendly infotainment system, and comfortable car seat accommodations. The RAV4 also comes with many standard safety features and provides a smooth ride.
Disadvantages: The RAV4 may have noticeable engine noise and ho-hum acceleration in the non-hybrid version. Higher trims can be surprisingly pricey, and the infotainment system lacks a home button.
Overall, the Toyota RAV4 offers excellent fuel economy, agile handling, a user-friendly infotainment system, and comfortable car seat accommodations. However, potential drawbacks include engine noise, non-hybrid acceleration, higher prices for certain trims, and the absence of a home button in the infotainment system.
Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Manufacturer: Hyundai
Model(Years): Tucson Hybrid(2023)
Price Range: $31,350 To $39,110 (3 Trims)
Specs: 1.6L engine with 226 horsepower, 182.3 Length 65.6 Height, 38 combined MPG
Engine type: Intercooled Turbo Gas/Electric I-4
Advantages: The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offers excellent ride comfort, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable driving experience on mountain roads. It provides a roomy backseat, allowing passengers to stretch out and relax during longer drives.
The Tucson Hybrid also boasts ample cargo area, accommodating gear and equipment needed for mountain adventures. Fuel economy is another advantage, with the hybrid powertrain delivering efficient performance and reduced fuel consumption.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid is the modest power output from the base four-cylinder engine, which may result in less dynamic acceleration compared to some competitors. The optional 10.25-inch screen on higher trims loses wireless smartphone connectivity, which can be inconvenient for those who rely on wireless integration.
Overall, the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid offers ride comfort, a roomy backseat, ample cargo area, and fuel efficiency for mountain driving. However, it’s important to consider the modest power of the base engine, the potential loss of wireless smartphone connectivity on the larger screen, frustrating touch controls on higher trims, and the reduced headroom due to the panoramic moonroof when evaluating the Tucson Hybrid.
Kia Telluride
Manufacturer: Kia
Model(Years): Telluride(2023)
Price Range: $35,890 To $52,985
Specs: 3.8L engine with 291 horsepower, 196.9 Length 68.9 Height, 23 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Kia Telluride offers a spacious interior, providing ample room for passengers and cargo during mountain drives. It features a communicative steering feel, allowing drivers to have a sense of control and confidence in various road conditions. The ride quality of the Telluride is commendable, offering a comfortable and smooth experience even on uneven terrains. Because of its these features, we add it to the list of best cars for mountain driving.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Kia Telluride is that Road noise can be noticeable inside the cabin, which may detract from the overall comfort and refinement. Another drawback is the lack of wireless Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, requiring a physical connection for smartphone integration.
Ford F-150
Manufacturer: Ford
Model(Years): F-150( 2023)
Price Range: $34,585 To $84,910 (8 Trims)
Specs: 3.3L engine with 290 horsepower, 209.1 Length 75.6 Height, 20 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Ford F-150 offers a dizzying array of options, allowing buyers to customize the truck according to their specific needs and preferences. It boasts impressive towing and off-road capabilities, making it a reliable choice for mountain driving and hauling equipment.
The F-150 incorporates innovative technology and convenience features, enhancing comfort and functionality during long drives. Additionally, the F-150 provides myriad powertrain choices, catering to a range of performance and efficiency requirements.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Ford F-150 is that it’s easy to add lots of expensive options, potentially driving up the overall cost of the truck. The F-150 may have a firm ride, which may be less comfortable for some passengers, especially on uneven mountain roads. Furthermore, certain models like the Raptor and Raptor R may have lower fuel economy due to their high-performance nature.
Jeep Wrangler
Manufacturer: Jeep
Model(Years): Wrangler(2023)
Price Range: $31,195 To $82,495 (14 Trims)
Specs: 3.6L engine with 285 horsepower, 166.8 Length 73.6 Height, 20 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Jeep Wrangler is renowned for its impressive off-road capability, making it an ideal choice for tackling rugged mountain terrains. It also offers decent on-road handling, providing a balanced driving experience both on and off the pavement.
The Wrangler’s unique feature of easy removal of the top, doors, and windshield allows for an open-air driving experience, perfect for enjoying scenic views during mountain drives. Additionally, the Wrangler offers a power-sliding top option, providing added convenience and versatility.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Jeep Wrangler is its relatively expensive base price compared to some competitors. The Wrangler may also have a rougher ride compared to rival vehicles, as it is designed with off-road capability in mind.
Chevrolet Colorado
Manufacturer: Chevrolet
Model(Years): Colorado(2023)
Price Range: $29,200 To $46,800 (5 Trims)
Specs: 2.7L engine with 310 horsepower, 213.0 Length 78.8 Height, 22 combined MPG
Engine type: Turbocharged Gas I4
Advantages: The Chevrolet Colorado boasts attractive styling, making it visually appealing for mountain driving enthusiasts. It offers impressive acceleration, providing ample power for quick maneuvers on mountainous roads. Colorado exhibits tight body control, enhancing stability and responsiveness during dynamic driving. And for these reasons, we add this to the list of best cars for mountain driving.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Chevrolet Colorado is the presence of hard plastic in the interior, which may detract from the overall perceived quality and comfort. The backseat legroom in Colorado is comparatively less spacious, potentially limiting comfort for rear passengers during longer drives.
Nissan Xterra
Manufacturer: Nissan
Model(Years): Xterra(2015)
Price Range: $23,660 To $30,590 (3 Trims)
Specs: 4.0L engine with 261 horsepower, 178.7 Length 74.9 Height, 18 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded V-6
Advantages: The Nissan Xterra features a strong V-6 engine, providing ample power for mountain driving and confident acceleration. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a seamless and enjoyable driving experience.
The Xterra offers supportive seats, ensuring comfort during long drives on rugged terrains. Additionally, it has a respectable towing capacity, allowing for hauling trailers or equipment needed for outdoor adventures.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Nissan Xterra is the poor brake-pedal feel, which may affect the overall braking performance and responsiveness. There have been reported instances where seat belts can get trapped under the backseat, potentially causing inconvenience or difficulty when buckling up. Another drawback is the gas mileage, which may be less efficient compared to some other vehicles in its class.
GMC Sierra 1500
Manufacturer: GMC
Model(Years): Sierra 1500(2023)
Price Range: $37,100 To $82,100 (8Trims)
Specs: 2.7L engine with 310 horsepower, 210.9 Length 75.7 Height, 20 combined MPG
Engine type: Turbocharged Gas I4
Advantages: The GMC Sierra 1500 offers ample cabin space, providing a comfortable and roomy environment for both driver and passengers. It delivers a smooth ride and confident handling, ensuring a pleasant driving experience on mountain roads. The powerful V-8 engine option adds impressive performance and towing capability, making it suitable for hauling heavy loads.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the GMC Sierra 1500 is that the top trims can become expensive, potentially pushing the price beyond the budget of some buyers. The fact that the Chevrolet Silverado, which shares much of its mechanical components with the Sierra, is available at a lower price point may make the Sierra less appealing to cost-conscious consumers.
Toyota Tacoma
Manufacturer: Toyota
Model(Years): Tacoma(2023)
Price Range: $28250 To $47,685 (7 Trims)
Specs: 2.7L engine with 159 horsepower, 212.3 Length 70.6 Height, 21 combined MPG
Engine type: Regular Unleaded I-4
Advantages: The Toyota Tacoma comes with a strong V-6 engine, providing ample power for mountain driving and towing capabilities. It offers a comfortable ride quality, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience even on rough terrains. The Tacoma also excels in terms of its premium stereo performance, delivering high-quality sound for an enhanced driving experience.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Toyota Tacoma is the lack of headroom, which may be a concern for taller individuals. The backseat can feel cramped, limiting the comfort and space for rear passengers.
Golf Alltrack
Manufacturer: Volkswagen
Model(Years): Golf Alltrack (2019)
Price Range: $26,895 To $34,995 (3 Trims)
Specs: 1.8L engine with 168 horsepower, 180.2 Length 59.6 Height, 24 combined MPG
Engine type: Intercooled Turbo Regular Unleaded I-4
Advantages: The Golf Alltrack impresses with its handling, offering a balanced and engaging driving experience, especially on mountain roads. The engine refinement of the Golf Alltrack contributes to a smooth and enjoyable ride, delivering power with finesse.
The cabin materials are of high quality, providing a premium and comfortable interior environment. The Alltrack’s versatility is another advantage, with its ample cargo space and available all-wheel drive, making it suitable for various outdoor activities and mountain adventures.
Disadvantages: One disadvantage of the Golf Alltrack is that the steering feedback may not be as communicative and engaging in the GTI and R trims, potentially reducing the overall driving experience for those seeking a sportier feel. The clutch feels in the manual transmission version may also be a drawback, as it may not provide the desired level of responsiveness or engagement.
Choosing the Best Cars for Mountain Driving
Choosing the best cars for mountain driving requires careful consideration of several factors. The decision depends on a variety of factors, including the specific needs and preferences of the driver, the terrain and conditions of the mountainous regions, and the desired performance and features of the vehicle. Let’s briefly discuss the factors that should be taken into account before choosing a car for mountain driving.
Off-Road Capability
Mountain driving often involves navigating challenging terrains, so it’s crucial to consider a car’s off-road capability. Look for features like all-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, adequate ground clearance, and advanced traction control systems to ensure optimal performance on uneven or slippery surfaces.
Power and Performance
Mountains can have steep inclines and require sufficient power for climbing and maintaining speed. Choose a car with a powerful engine that provides ample torque, especially if you plan to carry heavy loads or tow trailers. Opt for a car with good acceleration and strong braking capabilities to handle the demands of mountainous terrain.
Braking Performance
Mountain driving often requires frequent braking due to steep descents and hairpin turns. Ensure your chosen car has reliable and responsive brakes with features like anti-lock braking systems (ABS) and electronic brake-force distribution (EBD). Consider larger brake rotors or performance brakes for improved stopping power and heat dissipation.
Fuel Efficiency
Look for a car with good fuel efficiency to minimize the number of fuel stops during your mountain journeys. Hybrid or electric vehicles can be particularly beneficial, as they offer better fuel economy in stop-and-go traffic and regenerative braking systems. So always discover the best cars for mountain driving, including fuel-efficient options.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, choosing the right car for mountain driving is a deeply personal decision. Each driver has their own unique preferences and priorities. If a feature is important for one driver might not hold the same significance for another. As long as the chosen vehicle meets your specific needs and prioritizes your safety, there is no wrong choice. Ultimately, it’s about finding a car that aligns with your requirements and brings you confidence on the mountain roads.
